April 4, 2008

• View video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxdQPf8J36U

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - A sampling of projects that represent the research, scholarship and creative undergraduate experience beyond the classroom at UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham) will be showcased 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. April 18 in the Hill University Center Great Hall, 1400 University Blvd.

"UAB Expo: An Exposition of Undergraduate Scholarship" will feature student projects produced under the guidance of faculty mentors. Projects include the study of interstellar ice, wear testing of coatings on titanium alloys for hip replacements, testing for ground water purity, satellite imaging of ancient sites, the effects of dietary supplements, testing for bridge structural integrity, tracking and studying the causes of diseases, film explorations of cultural issues, modern economic questions, theater set and costume design and much more.

"The undergraduate experience at UAB goes far beyond the classroom and includes every discipline on campus," said Christopher W. Reaves, director of the UAB Office for Undergraduate Research. "This event gives our students a chance to present their work in a professional manner and see what other students are doing. It not only allows them to share their hard work, it prepares them for the future when they will present their work at conferences, in journals, for inclusion in exhibitions or as part of their applications for graduate school or employment.

"Much of the credit goes to the UAB faculty, who provide hands-on learning and research opportunities for students. At graduation, UAB students not only have a degree in hand, but also four years of applied experience and know-how that is extremely attractive to the graduate schools and businesses recruiting them."